Lake Arlington Catfish Population Booming

ATHENS—Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) gillnetting surveys reveal channel catfish numbers in Lake Arlington are not only increasing, but the fish appear to be getting bigger.

In fact, Philip Bonham of North Richland Hills recently caught the new lake record, a nine-pounder.

"Results from Lake Arlington reveal a very good channel catfish population," said Raphael Brock, a TPWD Inland Fisheries biologist. "In fact, the catch rates observed this spring are the highest recorded for the lake. The size range of channel cats captured was also very good, with high catch rates of fish over five and ten pounds."

The highest catch rates were of fish 11 to 13 inches long, with the longest fish recorded being 30 inches long. Catfish harvested from Lake Arlington must be at least 12 inches long, and there is a 25-fish-per-day bag limit.

"Lake Arlington has always had one of the best channel catfish populations of any lake in the DFW area, and it appears it is only getting better," Brock said. "Anglers should take advantage of this good fish population."

A fishing license is required to fish at Lake Arlington for anyone who is 17 years of age and older. If you are using a boat, a permit from the City of Arlington is also required; it can be obtained from the lake office located at the Richard Simpson boat ramp, 6300 W. Arkansas Lane.